Ludlow photo gallery sets up support charity
A photographic gallery in Ludlow has launched its own charity in support of those living with physical and mental illness, loneliness and isolation.
The owners of the Photo Space decided to set up the Photo Space Charity after many visitors to the gallery spoke about photography as a "lifeline".
Gallery owner Peter Jones said: "For many visitors to the Photo Space, photography has been, and remains, a lifeline, a support, a creative outlet, a reason to get out and face the world, a way to recover from illness and to keep well.
"We see photography as another tool to help people in need – those at risk of illness, recovering from illness and needing to keep well, or experiencing bereavement, loneliness or sadness."
The new charity was launched by Ludlow Mayor Tim Gill at an event at Ludlow Methodist Church, with an exhibition of photographs by Paul Sanders.
Paul's career in photojournalism led to his appointment as Picture Editor of The Times, but after suffering stress, depression and insomnia, he left to pursue his passion for landscape photography as a form of therapy. He spoke about his personal connection with photography and mental health.
His exhibition, 'Solace', can be viewed at the Photo Space until December 1.
Also at the launch were Jan Williams and Chris Teasdale, who spoke about how they use photography "to document the reality and surreality of everyday life".
The photographers were interviewed on stage by Jim Hawkins from BBC Radio Shropshire – a keen photographer himself with a personal interest in issues surrounding mental health – before they took questions from the audience.
Peter added: "The launch went really well. It was an enjoyable and thought-provoking evening."
Going forward, the charity will train volunteers to work with health care providers to identify people who could benefit from discovering the fun and joy of photography, and the help it can give to keep well.
Donations of cameras and photography equipment, as well as money, are now being accepted.
Volunteers with photography skills who would be willing to be trained up to deliver services are also being encouraged to come forward.
